Kuala Lumpur: Chinese President Xi Jinping is set to embark on a three-day state visit to Malaysia next week, as announced by officials in the Malaysian capital. This visit comes at a critical time, as Xi has expressed a commitment to strengthening relations with neighboring countries.
According to Anadolu Agency, the Malaysian government spokesperson Fahmi Fadzil emphasized that the visit is part of Malaysia’s strategic initiative to diversify its trade partnerships on the global stage. This visit marks Xi’s first trip to Malaysia since Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim took office in 2022. The two leaders previously met in Beijing last November.
Xi’s visit to Kuala Lumpur holds considerable importance, given Malaysia’s current role as chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). ASEAN stands as China’s largest trade partner, and both sides are engaging in discussions to finalize a code of conduct concerning the contested South China Sea.
This diplomatic engagement follows the imposition of tariffs by US President Donald Trump on over 180 countries, including a significant 104% tariff on China and a 24% tariff on Malaysia, Southeast Asia’s third-largest economy.
Xi has reiterated his intention to foster stronger ties with neighboring nations, including managing differences diplomatically. China has overlapping maritime claims with several ASEAN members, including Malaysia, making these discussions crucial.
The trip, beginning on April 15, is seen as a strategic move by China to enhance its economic and diplomatic influence in the region. Before arriving in Malaysia, Xi is expected to visit Vietnam, and he is scheduled to proceed to Cambodia after concluding his visit to Kuala Lumpur.
China has maintained its position as Malaysia’s largest trading partner since 2009, underscoring the significance of this visit in the context of regional trade and diplomacy.